The 2016 Tesla Model S AWD – 75D achieves 103 MPG combined. This is a vehicle that prioritizes performance, technology, and lower fuel costs in a sleek package. Owners of this Model S were seeking a luxury vehicle that aligns with their values, and the 75D delivers on that.

City and highway performance

The EPA numbers show 102 MPG in the city and 105 MPG on the highway. These figures highlight a key advantage of electric vehicles: regenerative braking. In city driving, the frequent stop-and-go motion allows the car to recapture energy and feed it back into the battery, resulting in efficiency that’s nearly identical to highway driving. The instant torque of the electric motors provides brisk acceleration in both conditions, making merging onto highways or navigating city streets effortless. Drivers of the Model S 75D don’t sacrifice performance to achieve these impressive numbers; they enjoy the best of both worlds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Tesla Model S AWD – 75D is $750. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average electricity prices. Electricity costs vary considerably based on location and charging habits, but this number provides a valuable benchmark. For example, owners who charge primarily at home during off-peak hours can significantly reduce their energy expenses, possibly even below the $750 estimate.

Real-world expectations

Real-world fuel economy for any vehicle can fluctuate based on driving style, weather conditions, and terrain, and the same is true for the Model S 75D. Aggressive acceleration, frequent use of climate control, and driving at high speeds will all reduce the effective range and efficiency. Even under less-than-ideal conditions, most drivers will find the 75D remarkably efficient compared to similar-sized gasoline-powered luxury sedans. Tesla’s over-the-air software updates can sometimes improve the efficiency and range of the vehicle, further enhancing its long-term value and performance.

How it compares

Direct comparisons to gasoline vehicles are almost unfair to them. For example, a similarly sized BMW 535i xDrive from the same year achieves around 23 MPG combined. The Porsche Panamera 4, another performance-oriented luxury sedan, manages only around 21 MPG combined. The Model S 75D offers comparable or even superior acceleration and handling while eliminating gasoline consumption, making its electric powertrain attractive to buyers. You can examine all Tesla fuel economy data on this site. While newer EV sedans like the Lucid Air achieve higher efficiencies, the 2016 Tesla Model S 75D represents a significant step forward from internal combustion offerings of the era. Dive into MODEL MPG across all years to see how the Model S stacks up against other trims and model years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of regenerative braking. Tesla’s regenerative braking system is highly effective at recapturing energy, especially in stop-and-go traffic. Adjust the setting to “Standard” for maximum energy recovery. This helps extend your range and reduces wear on the brake pads.

Plan your route carefully. Use the Tesla navigation system to plan your route and identify charging locations along the way. The navigation system factors in elevation changes and traffic conditions to provide accurate range estimates and optimize energy consumption.

Precondition the battery. During cold weather, precondition the battery before driving. This warms the battery up to its optimal operating temperature, improving efficiency and range. This can be done through the Tesla app or the vehicle’s touchscreen.

Monitor your tire pressure. Proper tire pressure reduces rolling resistance, improving efficiency and handling. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels. This is especially important during temperature changes, as tire pressure can fluctuate.